Sycamore

Platanus occidentalisOther Name: Buttonwood

DISTRIBUTIONThroughout Eastern U.S.

GENERAL DESCRIPTIONThe sapwood of sycamore is white to light yellow, while the heartwood is light to dark brown. The wood has a fine close texture with interlocked grain. Contrasts well with other species.

WORKING PROPERTIESThe wood machines well, but high speed cutters are needed to prevent chipping. It is resistant to splitting due to the interlocked grain. The wood glues well and stains, with care, to an excellent finish. It dries fairly rapidly, with a tendency to warp. It has moderate shrinkage and little movement in performance.

PHYSICAL PROPERTIESThe wood is classified as moderate in weight, hardness, stiffness and shock resistance. It turns well on the lathe and has good bending qualities.